More than 300 Gather at Fairmont State University for U.S. Premiere of Documentary on Farmington No. 9 Mine Disaster
Fairmont State University hosted the U.S. premiere of A Day to Remember, a powerful documentary exploring the 1968 Farmington No. 9 Mine disaster and its lasting impact on safety regulations worldwide. Originally debuting in Brazil in Portuguese, the film was presented in English for its first U.S. screening.
The event was hosted in Fairmont State’s Colebank Hall, drawing more than 300 attendees, including victims’ families, community members, students, faculty, and staff. Guests experienced an evening featuring the film screening, an engaging panel discussion, audience questions, and a reception with a Brazilian-West Virginian fusion menu.
Fairmont State University President Mike Davis reflected on the significance of the occasion.
“Coal mining is deeply ingrained in West Virginian culture, and the Farmington No. 9 disaster is a defining event in our region’s history,” said Davis. “Fairmont State, as North-Central West Virginia’s bedrock institution, was honored to serve as a site for honest conversation and discussion as we remember those lost in this tragedy and educate people about how it led to improved mine safety around the world.”
A Day to Remember revisited the disaster that claimed the lives of 78 miners 57 years ago and forever redefined workplace safety. Led by documentarian Andreza Araújo, the film featured testimonies from family members, survivors, and environmental health and safety experts, along with archival footage. The documentary refreshed memories, investigated root causes, and celebrated a legacy that has saved countless lives while continuing to inspire future generations.
Each year, families and community members gather near the anniversary to honor the victims and advocate for mine safety. Scheduled the day after this year’s memorial service, the premiere offered a powerful reflection on the disaster and its aftermath. Following the screening, Araújo led a live Q&A with a panel of experts, composed of former WV Senator Mike Caputo, Reverend Dick Bowyer, and Retired Federal Mine Inspector Gary Pastorial. They discussed the impact of the tragedy and the reforms it inspired. Audience members also had the opportunity to submit questions, and a reception concluded the evening.
“Being here today, at Fairmont State University, so close to Farmington means standing in a place of profound significance. This region holds a story with important lessons about the value of human life,” said Araújo. “A Day to Remember is not just about the past—it is about a future we can build where we learn from our tragedies. By sharing this, we make a promise that the 78 lives lost that day were not in vain.”
As proud stewards of place, Fairmont State University remains committed to preserving the stories that shape our region and educating future generations about their significance. By hosting the U.S. premiere of A Day to Remember, the University reaffirmed its dedication to serving the people of West Virginia, honoring the past, inspiring dialogue, and fostering a brighter future for communities across the state and beyond.
